Avance Attorneys Ltd offers a ‘unique blend of legal and commercial excellence’ on high-end, complex M&A work in Finland and the Nordics. The team is focused on advising large and medium-sized companies and private equity groups and is experienced in a number of sectors including the gaming, healthcare, technology, industrial and energy industries. Erkki-Antti Sadinmaa advises clients on M&A, investments, restructurings, management incentive arrangements and corporate matters, while Ilkka Perheentupa represents funds and industrial clients. Ulf-Henrik Kull is a leading professional in corporate, M&A and cross-border transactions, and is regularly involved in complex transactions in the Nordic region. Anders Floman regularly advises clients on general commercial and contractual matters, and Henrik Aro, who is the key name at senior associate level, focuses on M&A in technology-focused industries while also regularly advising growth companies and venture capital funds on venture capital financing rounds. Firm chairman Carl-Henrik Wallin also contributes to the practice and excels in nuclear sector matters and corporate governance work.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in Finland
Avance Attorneys Ltd
Practice head(s):
Erkki-Antti Sadinmaa; Ilkka Perheentupa; Ulf-Henrik Kull; Carl-Henrik Wallin; Anders Floman
Other key lawyers:
Henrik Aro;Mathias Lindqvist
Testimonials
‘They work efficiently and in small group with high knowledge – close to the business.’
‘We are working primarily with Mathias Lindqvist. He is fast, reliable and understands our business and our needs. We don’t have any in-house lawyers in Finland so to me it is extremely important that I can trust the lawyers we work with.’
‘Unique blend of legal and commercial excellence. The most important quality of an M&A/Capital Raise deal lawyer is to think in terms of solutions, not risk. Avance excels at providing strategic advice, allowing parties to move forward, instead of getting stuck in theoretical risks.’
‘Team very professional and engaged in the M&A project; great project management and output.’
Key clients
CVC Capital Partners
Adelis Equity Partners
Neova
Alma Media
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
KKR
Procuritas
Tradeka-Yhtiöt
Verso Capital
Bravida
CapMan Buyout
CapMan Infra
Rettig Group
Summa Equity
Intera Partners
Verdane
Mercell
Nordic Capital
MB Funds
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA)
Allianz Capital Partners
Altor Equity Partners
Reworks
Loimua
Uniper
Addtech
Ardian
Hologic, Inc.
GameRefinery
Elenia
Enreach
Mandatum Asset Management
DoorDash, Inc.
Fortaco Group
Standout Capital
Bridgepoint
Amer Sports
Work highlights
- Advised DoorDash, Inc. on the acquisition of Wolt Enterprises Oy via an all-stock transaction valued at approximately €7bn.
- Assisted Reworks Oy and its shareholders with the sale of the company to Playtika, an Israel-based game developer.
- Advised CapMan Infra on the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Koiviston Auto (Metsäpietilä Oy), Finland’s leading bus operator.
Dittmar & Indrenius
Dittmar & Indrenius fields a large corporate practice, which advises on complex, high-value transactions in the corporate and private equity spheres, often containing cross-border elements. The team has recently been engaged on large public M&A and private equity deals and issues relating to energy and infrastructure projects in Finland. Jan Ollila has extensive experience in high-profile public and private transactions. Group co-head Wilhelm Eklund is a recognised M&A and private equity lawyer, while fellow co-head Mikko Eerola is involved in top Finnish and cross-border private equity deals, acting for clients including major international and Finnish private equity houses. Gabrielle Dannberg has a specific focus on technology mandates, and is respected for her work on complex M&A and private equity transactions, while newly promoted partner Jasper Kuhlefelt is a key name for public M&A in Finland. Senior partner Anders Carlberg is also a noteworthy practitioner.
Practice head(s):
Wilhelm Eklund; Mikko Eerola
Other key lawyers:
Jan Ollila; Gabrielle Dannberg; Jasper Kuhlefelt; Anders Carlberg
Testimonials
‘Very deep knowledge on certain topics, e.g. tech.’
‘Great combination of expertise and nice, easy to work with, flexible and available support.’
‘Very experienced team with high commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.’
‘Wilhelm Eklund is a true professional with great negotiation skills and commitment to address client’s issues.’
‘Always provides a human touch to the work they do – Can fully be trusted to discuss with the management team of our portfolio businesses and any new potential investments – Are always careful not to duplicate work/requests to the client.’
‘Gabrielle Dannberg is incredibly diligent. She will always take the time to talk through points and explain comments. I have been working with her for over 5 years and she has always taken the time to go the extra mile. She never rushes through anything.’
‘Responsiveness, collaboration.’
‘Jasper Kuhlefelt is always available when needed, is attentive and makes a client feel valued.’
Key clients
Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
OMERS Infrastructure
Infracapital
Solidium
Cargotec Oyj
SPX FLOW
Prosus Ventures
Tiger Global Management
KLAR Partners
MB Funds
Hexagon AB
Providence Strategic Growth
Nexi S.p.A
Colas
Work highlights
- Advising MB Funds on the sale of Raksystems to Trill impact.
- Advising Brookfield Asset Management on the acquisition of 49% of Telia Company’s tower business in Finland and Norway.
- Advising Colas on its acquisition of Destia.
Hannes Snellman
Hannes Snellman employs a multidisciplinary approach to M&A transactions at a domestic and cross-border level, involving both listed and privately-held companies from various industries. The group is experienced in share transfers, business and asset transfers, public takeovers, mergers, reverse buyouts, spin-offs, joint ventures, distressed M&A, private equity work, LBOs, MBOs, venture capital mandates, fund issues and portfolio management work. Sten Olsson is head of the firm’s M&A group and has been involved in some of the most significant transactions across Finland and Sweden. Johan Aalto focuses on M&A and corporate finance matters, and also handles corporate governance issues. Heidi Haanpää advises both corporate and private equity clients on a wide range of private and public M&A transactions, distressed M&A and other corporate arrangements, while Mikko Heinonen focuses on corporate transactions, finance advice and securities regulations. Managing associate Annika Schauman advises clients on domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions and has a focus on private equity transactions, and Antti Kuha is a key contact for cross-border transactions involving public companies.
Practice head(s):
Sten Olsson
Other key lawyers:
Johan Aalto; Heidi Haanpää; Mikko Heinonen; Annika Schauman; Antti Kuha; Riikka Rannikko; Tuire Kuronen
Testimonials
‘Excellent choice for complex and strategic work. Focus is clearly on finding a practical solution to client’s problems and targets. Ability to look at the whole picture and to analyse the challenge from a business perspective.’
‘Riikka Rannikko’s ability to handle matters relating to various practice areas is excellent. This really makes a difference. Tuire Kuronen is excellent in M&A transactional work.’
‘Always available, also with short notice. Delivers what promises and typically more than I expect in respect of strategic and tactical advice.’
‘Riikka Rannikko is excellent. Knowledgeable, easy to work with, hands on. Could not expect more from her.’
Key clients
Smartly.io
Supermetrics Oy
Metso Outotec Oy
Konecranes Plc
Anora Group
Chevron Products UK Limited
Tikkurila Oyj
Blueprint Genetics Oy
Sanoma Corporation
Fazer Group / Oy Karl Fazer Ab
YIT Corporation
OP Financial Group
Telia Company AB, Telia Finland Oyj
EQT
Sentica Partners Oy
Vaaka Partners Oy
Ahlström-Munksjö Oyj
UPM Group / UPM-Kymmene Corporation
Nokian Tyres plc
Sampo plc
KONE Corporation
Lassila & Tikanoja Oyj
Virala Acquisition Company Plc
Work highlights
- Advised Virala Acquisition Company Plc, the first company listed on the SPAC segment of the regulated market of Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd, on its merger with Purmo Group Ltd.
- Advised Angel Pond Holdings Corporation, a NYSE listed SPAC entity, on its combination with MariaDB Corporation Ab in a first-ever cross-border SPAC merger involving a Finnish entity.
- Acted as Finnish counsel to Intera, a private equity house based in Finland, on its exit from Renta Group Oy.
Krogerus
Krogerus fields a team with a ‘great combination of young and experienced talent’, which advises on complex, cross-border and high-end M&A mandates in the healthcare, energy, construction, IT, leisure, infrastructure and food sectors. Mika Ståhlberg advises companies and private equity investors on M&A and has extensive experience in assignments in the finance sector. Sami Martola heads up the firm’s private equity practice, and focuses on corporate transactions, private equity issues and M&A. Marcus Möller is noted by one client as ‘hands down, Finland’s best M&A lawyer’, while Jan Johanson regularly receives instructions from domestic and international clients on private equity and M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Mika Ståhlberg; Sami Martola; Jan Johanson
Other key lawyers:
Marcus Möller; Jenni Teurokoski; Lennart Simonsen; Timo Rautiainen
Testimonials
‘Marcus Möller must be, hands down, Finland’s best M&A lawyer. Calm, skilled, always available and solution oriented. He simply gets the deal done.’
‘Excellent team, very good to work with and very efficient in getting a transaction done.’
‘Great combination of young and experienced talent.’
‘Fast and flexible.’
‘Lennart Simonsen and Timo Rautiainen. Both are very reliable, responsive and always ready to go the extra mile to find a solution which is in the client’s best interest.’
‘Very professional team with high commitment to serve client needs.’
Key clients
Retail Logistics Excellence – RELEX Oy
Kyndryl Corporation
Taaleri
Stora Enso
Marlin Equity Partners
Royal Unibrew
One Equity Partners
Mintly
MB Funds
JM Suomi
Synexa Life Sciences
Sentica Partners
TietoAkseli Oy
Verdane
Clausion International
Walki Group
Institutional Venture Partners
NVBS Rail
Fasadgruppen
Intera Partners
VR Group
AFRY
Work highlights
- Advised Retails Logistics Excellence – RELEX Oy on an investment round of €500m led by funds managed by Blackstone Growth with an aggregate valuation above €5bn.
- Advised VR Group on the acquisition of Arriva Sverige AB from Arriva Group, the pan-European passenger transport company ultimately owned by Deutsche Bahn AG.
- Acted for One Equity Partners when it acquired Fortaco Group from CapMan funds.
Roschier
Roschier has a broad range of experience across public and private M&A, complex private equity work and cross-border transactions throughout the Nordics and Finland, with its key client focus including large listed companies, PE houses, banks and lending institutions, leading technology and telecoms companies and large family-owned enterprises. Jouni Salmi has in-depth knowledge of a wide variety of industry sectors including the forest, airline and payment industries, with extensive experience in complex multi-jurisdictional transactions and divestments. Jon Unnérus
is head of the private equity practice, and has extensive experience in advising in complex cross-border transactions and divestments, while Manne Airaksinen excels in public M&A work and ECM matters. Antti Ihamuotila has substantial experience in public M&A and corporate advisory work, and Tero Jormanainen has experience in advising clients on M&A and private equity transactions, leveraging expertise in the healthcare, IT and life sciences industries. Kiira Tuohimaa was promoted to partner in May 2022, and Petri Avikainen joined from Asianajotoimisto White & Case Oy in February 2022.
Practice head(s):
Jouni Salmi; Jon Unnérus; Antti Ihamuotila
Other key lawyers:
Tero Jormanainen; Kiira Tuohimaa; Petri Avikainen; Manne Airaksinen; Jan-Anders Wik; Rene Male
Testimonials
‘Any question, difficulty, uncertainty – they can deliver with very deep knowledge and expertise.’
‘Tero Jormanainen – highly pragmatic and friendly approach even in substantially complex situations. Highly respected and trusted by our team.’
‘A professional full-service firm. Top-tier in Finland.’
‘Jan-Anders Wik has great experience and is easy to work with.’
‘Very satisfied with our experience with Roschier all along. Smart, creative, committed and well established.’
‘Jouni Salmi: excellent negotiator, has a very deep knowledge of the market, committed and creative, a great partner to have on your side for high level transactions. Rene Male: clear, committed and smart, has always delivered in a professional fashion.’
Key clients
Telia Company
Suomen Autokauppa Oy
TietoEVRY Corporation
Loxam S.A.S.
Boels Topholding B.V.
Investor consortium led by ANTA Sports Products Limited
Coronaria
Musti Group Oy
Huhtamäki Oyj
Finnair Oyj
Bain Capital
Neles Corporation
Wolt
Work highlights
- Advising Wolt on the approx. €7bn sale of the company to NYSE-listed DoorDash in an all-stock transaction.
- Advising Basware Corporation on the voluntary recommended public cash tender offer for the shares in the company by a consortium of investors comprising Accel-KKR Capital Partners VI, LP, Long Path Holdings 1, LP and Briarwood Capital Partners LP through Sapphire BidCo Ltd.
- Advising Outokumpu on the divestment of the majority of its long products business operations to Marcegaglia Steel Group, a leading industrial group worldwide in the steel processing sector.
Asianajotoimisto White & Case Oy
Asianajotoimisto White & Case Oy is a leading global M&A law firm with expertise in structuring and executing complex, domestic and cross-border transactions and handling demergers, leveraged buy-outs, joint ventures and equity investments across a range of industrial sectors. The practice also leverages the expertise of the firm’s global network on international mandates. Team head Timo Airisto has advised on some of Finland’s largest transactions and is dual qualified in the US and Finland. Victor Åberg joined the firm in April 2022 and focuses on private equity acquisitions and complex cross-border corporate transactions, and Jussi Kukko stands out for his experience in advising private equity houses and financial clients on cross-border M&A.
Practice head(s):
Timo Airisto
Other key lawyers:
Victor Åberg; Jussi Kukko
Key clients
Advania AB
Ahlstrom-Munksjö Oyj
Andreessen Horowitz
CVC Capital Partners
Eurazeo
Euroports Group
Gambling.com Group
Goldman Sachs
Highland Europe (UK) LLP
ITOCHU Corporation
JPMorgan’s Infrastructure Investments Fund (IIF)
Keva
Legrand SA
Monterro
Neles Corporation
Neste Oyj
Nets Holding A/S
Nordika II ECC AB
Nordstjernan
ORIT Holdings Limited
PGGM
Renta Group Oy
Saferoard
Starwood Capital
Supercell
Triton Partners
Valorem Group
Work highlights
- Advising Valorem on the divestment of the 165MW Kalistanneva onshore wind farm to a Finnish consortium formed by HELEN Oy and the Bank of Åland Wind Power Fund Non-UCITS, and the simultaneous €135m project financing of the neighbouring 148.5MW Matkussaari onshore wind farm, together with the negotiation and settlement of all related commercial arrangements.
- Assisting Ahlstrom Munksjö, a global leader in fibre-based materials, with its reorganisation of the ownership of its Decor business to a newly formed company that will be named Munksjö.
- Advised Nordstjernan Investment AB on its acquisition of Aidian group.
Bird & Bird LLP
Bird & Bird advises on all forms of mandates from corporate finance and private and public M&A, to private equity mandates, IPOs and joint ventures as well as providing corporate governance advice. The firm is well regarded for transactional mandates, while also offering specialist regulatory knowledge. Maria Carlsson is the head of the Finnish corporate and M&A practice group; she focuses on cross-border private M&A and joint ventures. Mikko Ahonen has strong expertise in private equity issues, where he advises Finnish and international private equity investors and corporates on domestic and cross-border transactions. Matti Kuokkanen is the key name to note at associate level.
Other key lawyers:
Mikko Ahonen; Matti Kuokkanen; Kimmo Reina
Testimonials
‘Good knowledge about us, understanding the transaction nature.’
‘Bird & Bird Finland has great, hands-on, no-nonsense advice in M&A and corporate.’
‘Maria Carlsson. She understands the company’s situation well and proposed well-customised solutions.’
‘Kimmo Reina especially develops deep understanding on the client’s business and is able to recommend best practises and easy-to-adopt processes in transactions. His advice is practical, high quality and he is fast in his responses. I especially appreciate his way of giving concise advice, he gives value to every minute.’
‘Speed, innovative, good social skills.’
Key clients
Ericsson
Cyient Corporation
Mitsubishi Corporation
Prime Minister’s Office (VNK)
Fortum
Olvi
Ministry of Traffic and Communications (LVM)
Edita Group
Eezy Group
Pinja Group
Basware
Sponsor Capital
Razer Group
Bocap Finance
Holiday Club Resorts
Enersense International
Eficode
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
F-Secure
Work highlights
- Advised Finnish media powerhouse Nordic Morning Group Oyj on selling all the shares in Nordic Morning Finland Oy and Nordic Morning Group Sweden Ab (incl. subsidiaries) forming the Nordic Morning and Mods business areas of the seller’s group through a structured auction.
- Advising Cyient Corporation on a major acquisition of a global engineering consultancy group with its head office in Finland.
- Advised the Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications on drafting and negotiating a major nine-year contract for purchasing passenger rail transport services across Finland from VR Group Ltd.
Borenius
The ‘professional‘ team at Borenius is highly regarded among domestic and international private equity companies and has seen an increase in domestic and cross-border transactions, acting for industrial clients. Jyrki Tähtinen advises on private and public M&A and is an expert in private equity and fund formation work; he is also singled out for his knowledge of cross-border transactions. Johannes Piha heads up the firm’s M&A and private equity practice, advising both private equity and industrial clients, while Johan Roman assists a variety of names with M&A and private equity mandates, with clients ranging from established private equity sponsors to listed corporations. Nella Åström stands out for her knowledge of public M&A mandates. Janko Lindros joined the team in mid-2023 from Asianajotoimisto White & Case Oy.
Practice head(s):
Johannes Piha; Johan Roman
Other key lawyers:
Jyrki Tähtinen; Nella Åström; Janko Lindros
Testimonials
‘The team did generally good work and was proactive as well.’
‘Jyrki Tähtinen is very good.’
‘Very professional with high expertise yet easy-going and able to adjust approach to different settings and counterparts, and ability to simplify complex issues to down-to-earth common sense argumentation.’
‘Johannes Piha is fantastic in combining broad experience and expertise with down-to-earth, very flexible approach and sparring.’
‘Always good people in a team who think about the project’s next steps.’
‘Very good initiative taking. Always thinking ahead. Simple to work with.’
‘They can also push back on ideas if they do not seem realistic.’
‘They make complex issues easy to understand.’
Key clients
OP Financial Group
Harvia Plc
CapMan Plc
Metso Outotec Plc
Norvestor Private Equity
Vaaka Partners
Dongguan Liesheng Elec Tech Co., Ltd.
Keliber Ltd
Verkkokauppa.com Plc
Netflix, Inc.
Ponsse
SRV Group Plc
De Wave S.R.L.
Work highlights
- Advised Netflix, Inc. on its €65m voluntary recommended public cash tender offer for Next Games Corporation.
- Advised Helsinki listed SRV on the reorganisation of the company’s work-out financing and balance sheet restructuring in connection with the write-down of its Russian and Fennovoima assets totalling €141.2m.
- Advised Keliber, the future lithium hydroxide producer operating in the Central Ostrobothnia area in Finland, on the preparation of a financing arrangement to enable the Keliber lithium project to progress to the construction phase.
Castrén & Snellman
The ‘business-oriented‘ team at Castrén & Snellman has a focus on complex international and cross-border transactions, mergers, acquisitions and investments and also handles corporate governance work. The firm engages with clients from a broad spectrum of sectors including the energy, technology and transportation industries. As head of the M&A practice, Jan Örndahl advises public and private companies and private equity sponsors on domestic and cross-border acquisitions, divestitures and joint ventures. Heidi Paalanen-Koev is experienced in M&A, commercial agreements and transaction and trade-related compliance matters, while Pauliina Tenhunen has notable experience in corporate governance and company law issues, and insolvency and restructuring matters. Benjamin Bade has advised a number of key clients in the technology, food and health sectors on complex cross-border transactions, and Jarno Tanhuanpää leads the firm's private equity and venture capital offering.
Practice head(s):
Jan Örndahl; Jarno Tanhuanpää; Pauliina Tenhunen
Other key lawyers:
Heidi Paalanen-Koev; Benjamin Bade
Testimonials
‘I highly appreciate their solution oriented approach and readiness to discuss not only about legal matters per se but also deal tactics and negotiation points from our viewpoint, and also how things might look at the opposite side of the table.’
‘Truly committed in helping us to find the best solutions in difficult situations. Each team member we have worked with has been extremely helpful and easy to reach, also outside of office hours.’
‘Business oriented way of working, fast but comprehensive solutions.’
‘Jan Örndahl: Excellent understanding of the business needs. Quick solutions to complex problems. Benjamin Bade: Excellent understanding of business needs. Quick solutions to complex problems.’
Key clients
Lantmännen ek för
Valio Oy
Oddlygood Global Ltd
Seraphim Space
Molten Ventures Plc
Evli Bank Plc
F-Secure Corporation
WithSecure Corporation
Oy Karl Fazer Ab
Metsä Fibre Oy
Ahlström Capital Oy
Kone Corporation
Gasum Oy
Next Games Corporation
Blackstone Growth
Intera Partners Oy
ClearCapital.com, Inc.
Level Equity Management
Work highlights
- Advised WithSecure Corporation, a global cybersecurity and privacy company, on the separation of the company’s consumer security business through a partial demerger.
- Advising Ahlström Capital and its portfolio company Enics Group on the contemplated merger between Enics Group and GPV International A/S, wholly owned by the public listed company Schouw & Co A/S.
- Advised Blackstone Growth on the €500m funding round of Retail Logistics Excellence – RELEX Oy, a Finland-based provider of unified retail planning solutions.
DLA Piper Finland Attorneys Ltd
DLA Piper Finland Attorneys Ltd is strong in mid-market M&A and private equity matters, utilising its cross-border and international capabilities to handle matters for clients in the retail and pharmaceuticals sectors and venture capital funds. Ilkka Liljeroos is involved in advising buyers, sellers and investors on corporate transactions, while Matti Yla-Mononen has been actively advising Finnish and international clients on M&A and corporate law. Salla Tuominen, who took over as practice head from Liljeroos is early 2022, has substantial equity capital markets experience and advises on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions involving public and private corporations. Essi Lavikkala stands out for her experience advising industrial clients and private equity businesses on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Salla Tuominen
Other key lawyers:
Ilkka Liljeroos; Matti Yla-Mononen; Essi Lavikkala
Testimonials
‘Great overall expertise on all corporate law matters and demonstrated flexibility to answer customer needs.’
‘Ilkka Liljeroos has a great overall business understanding and capabilities to evaluate and take care of every situation.’
‘The team was extremely efficient, business minded and innovative. Also, even though we had a cross border transaction including multiple countries at hand, due to excellent co-operation management, we were able to have a “one-stop shop” experience as a customer.’
‘Ilkka Liljeroos (Partner) was very hands-on leading the team. He had outstanding understanding of our business goals and a proactive approach in providing us solutions to meet and even exceed those goals. Fast response times together with spot on and efficient advice makes Ilkka stand out from the competition.’
‘All departments were very accessible. M&A department delivered really high quality work. And at the same time understanding the commercial context as well as easy to work with. Competition law department was good in due diligence and analysing issues but less proactive in finding solutions.’
‘Ilkka Liljeroos was lead in our transaction. He is truly amazing. Always on top of all tracks. Very good commercial understanding and performed excellent; both on legal issues and commercial issues.’
‘Great customer service attitude. Consistent delivery.’
‘DLA Piper Finland team is very proactive and flexible to serve various client needs.’
Key clients
Digital 9 Infrastructure plc
Touhula-päiväkodit
Ministry of Justice
Manitou BF, SA
Worldline
Safedo Oyj
Keskinen Recycling Oy
PPG Industries, Inc.
Læringsverkstedet Gruppen AS
Enersense International Oyj
Raksystems Group / MB Funds
Digia Plc
AAC Capital and a private equity fund managed by AAC Capital
Bregal Milestone
AddSecure Group
Saari Partners
Elisa Plc
ABRY Partners
MB Funds
Sponsor Capital
INEOS
Bravedo
Plarium Global Ltd
Open Ocean Ventures
Nordic Eye Venture Capital
Superhero Capital
Peak Capital
Avidly Plc
Ministry of Justice
Avient Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised a global leader in paints and coating PPG Industries, Inc. on its €1.5bn voluntary recommended public cash tender offer for all shares in Tikkurila Oyj and thereafter in the related squeeze-out and delisting processes.
- Advised Touhula early education and its management on the management buy-out of the company from EQT the private equity investor.
- Advised Digital 9 Infrastructure plc on the strategic acquisition of a leading Finnish data centre and cloud services provider Ficolo Oy from Pontos Oy, Taaleri Datacenter Ky and other sellers.
Dottir Attorneys Ltd.
Dottir Attorneys Ltd. focuses on private and public M&A, equity investments, IPOs, due diligence issues, contract negotiations and regulatory mandates. Juha Nurminen advises clients on all types of transactions, and is praised as an 'excellent lawyer' by clients. Kyosti Siltala has over 20 years experience in public and private equity matters, as well as knowledge of cross-border M&A transactions and investments.
Practice head(s):
Juha Nurminen
Other key lawyers:
Kyosti Siltala
Testimonials
‘Dottir’s advice is always practical which I highly value – they understand and take into account not only legal aspects but also business with a “let’s get this done” attitude.’
‘Great level of expertise, collaboration is smooth. They understand the client’s business and are able to find smart solutions.’
‘Small and efficient team, no additional hierarchy or bureaucracy, everyone is on the same page and work great together – while keeping up positive spirit and momentum.’
‘They are very humane, practical and transparent. Special mention to Juha Nurminen, excellent lawyer.’
Key clients
Ruokaboksi Oy
World Fund
Happeo
Solnet Green Energy
Knowit AB
Witted Megacorp Plc
CapMan Growth
Zevoy
Irofit Technologies Oy
Fastroi
Fov Ventures
Videoly Oy
e-ville
Vincit
Disior
Sparkmind.vc
Inderes Plc
Silverbucket
Maki.vc
Playtika Holding Corp.
Work highlights
- Advised Vincit Plc, as a sole legal adviser, on its merger with Bilot Plc.
- Advised Playtika Holding Corp., as a sole legal adviser, on its acquisition of Reworks Oy, a Helsinki based game studio.
- Advised the lead investor World Fund, as a sole legal adviser, on the €128m Series A2 financing round of IQM Finland Oy.
HPP Attorneys
HPP Attorneys' corporate and M&A team continues to develop its presence in the Finnish market with its involvement in large and complex transactional work spanning a variety of sectors including the energy, infrastructure and technology industries. The practice has recently seen an increase in cross-border mandates, with the firm increasing its client roster of international strategic and private equity clients, including funds. Andrew Cotton is dual qualified in Finland and the UK and focuses on cross-border M&A deals, with additional experience advising on warranty and indemnity insurance matters. Antti Säiläkivi has over 15 years experience in corporate and M&A and financing transactions, while Emil Degerholm stands out for his experience in advising on M&A, private equity fund-related issues, joint ventures and corporate structuring transactions.
Practice head(s):
Antti Säiläkivi; Andrew Cotton
Other key lawyers:
Markku Mäkinen; Björn Nykvist; Emil Degerholm
Testimonials
‘They have very in-depth knowledge in specific areas such as W&I insurance and energy. In terms of client communication, they are very down-to earth and approachable.’
‘I’ve worked with Andrew Cotton and was surprised how proactively and confidently he steered the assignment to the client’s benefit.’
‘Lead partner Antti Säiläkivi makes the difference. His approach to transactions and ability to focus on relevant matters as well as capability to run a transaction process are of an extremely high level.’
‘Antti Säiläkivi is one of the best corporate legal professionals in Finland. His understanding of Finnish company regulation is thorough and he can combine that with business aspects delivering great solutions. Broad knowledge and long experience are a superb combination for the benefit of his clients.’
‘Good availability of the advisers at any time; professional preparation of documents, especially during a very fast and hectic closing procedure.’
‘Very competent in drafting and negotiating contracts in English even under time pressure or during a conference call.’
Lieke Attorneys Ltd.
Lieke Attorneys Ltd. is recognised for its work in the corporate and transactional space, with key clients spanning the construction and energy sectors, with projects including advising a power company on an M&A matter relating to the construction of a nuclear power plant. Ville Vyyryläinen focuses on corporate mandates and has carried out several domestic and cross-border financings and M&A transactions; he also has notable experience working with Finnish energy companies. Jani Rantanen acts as legal counsel to a number of corporate clients, with his focus on M&A, corporate restructurings, venture capital work and contractual issues. Jussi Ekonen stands out for his practice covering private equity transactions within the energy and infrastructure spaces.
Practice head(s):
Jani Rantanen; Ville Vyyryläinen
Other key lawyers:
Jussi Ekonen
Testimonials
‘I am pleased that when I take contact the first question is “What is your business goal?”. I have rarely experienced the same business-minded approach with other practices in the field.’
‘Easy access at all times of the day. The team that is needed is out together quickly and gets to the point.’
‘Lieke offers a strong and dedicated bench of professionals in the commercial legal space in Helsinki. The firm is very attentive and active in pursuing difficult objectives for clients and their tenacious approach is unrivalled.’
‘Ville Vyyryläinen: very much a rising star of the Helsinki commercial bar and a very user-friendly counsel.’
‘Knowledge about energy sector and M&A.’
‘Strong knowledge and support for contracting.’
Key clients
IBM
Bittiriihi Oy
Cactos Oy
Amua Oy
Winda Energy Oy
Haminan Energia Oy
IVALO Creative Agency Oy
Ministry of Finance
SF Power Company
L2 Paloturvallisuus Oy, a Jensen Hughes Company
Straightforward Capital Fund Ky
Vantaan Energia
Suomen Voima Oy (Finnish Power Ltd)
Tampereen Sähkölaitos Oy
Temet Group Oy
Keravan Energia Oy
Puhuri Oy
Luxid Group Oy
Vitec ALMA Oy (former ALMA Consulting Oy)
Cupori Ltd
Ouman Oy
Suomen Hyötytuuli Oy
MAXA Holding Limited
Nordic Biotech Group Oy
Work highlights
- Assisted IBM with the Finnish aspects of the global separation and reorganisation of Kyndryl Holdings, Inc., its managed infrastructure services business, prior to the spin-off of Kyndryl into a separate publicly traded company.
- Acted as the legal adviser for Bittiriihi Oy and the other shareholders of Bitcomp Oy, a leading provider of geographical information systems for the forestry sector, on the sale of the shares in the company to Sitowise Oy.
- Providing legal services to the Ministry of Finance in several practice areas.
Magnusson
Magnusson fields an experienced corporate and M&A practice in Finland and has been active in cross-border transactions, restructurings, small and mid-cap deals, risk management issues and general commercial work. The firm works closely with its counterparts across the Baltics, leveraging its network of offices on cross-border mandates. Heikki Wide has experience in general commercial and corporate law and advises international industrial companies on acquisitions, joint ventures, financings and business transactions. Tomi Merenheimo specialises in the management of cross-border transactions, particularly those involving several jurisdictions, an area in which Lilli Parbo also excels. Chairman Ville Salonen also contributes to the practice.
Practice head(s):
Heikki Wide; Tomi Merenheimo; Ville Salonen
Other key lawyers:
Lilli Parbo
Testimonials
‘Ville Salonen has been a trusted partner for years.’
‘What makes Magnusson unique is its ability to marry commercial understanding with legal doctrine to create a best solution, in terms of impact and cost, for a corporate client.’
‘My primary contact at Magnusson was Ville Salonen, who provided an excellent legal service. The specific attributes that stood out were responsiveness, legal understanding and an appreciation of the wider business context which allowed for a very effective and tailored response.’
‘The service is fast, smooth and professional. We get feedback right away, what is and/or will be status of the each project. Billing is transparent, no hidden costs, we get what we pay for. Clear communication, no hustle.’
‘My recommendation goes to Ville Salonen. Highly dedicated to serve, easy to reach in different situations getting fast feedback and understanding on how to proceed on each situation. Highly professional, with a smooth and easy-to-understand way to communicate. Gives good insights. Saves time and money for us.’
Key clients
St1 Lähienergia Oy
Kaspervik Vind Oü
Forus Oy
SSA Rakennus Oy
St1 Oy
Eurofins Scientific
Book Salon Oy
Teknos Group Oy
STR Tecoil Oy
Sofigate Group Oy
Meira Oy
AnaCap Financial Partners Limited
Algol Oy
Work highlights
- Advised French PE house AnaCap Financial Partners on its agreement with Nets, part of Nexi Group, for the acquisition of EDIGard, a leading platform provider of distribution and payment services in the Nordic.
- Assisted St1 Oy to establish Suomen Lantakaasu Oy, a company producing renewable biogas.
- Assisted Book Salon Oy with the receipt of a €3m capital investment.
Waselius & Wist
Waselius & Wist employs an ‘effective and forthcoming approach that makes deals flow‘ for its client’s domestic and international transactions, including the sale, purchase and financing of companies and businesses, joint ventures, mergers, takeovers, private equity and venture capital transactions, and management buyouts. Christoffer Waselius is the co-head of the M&A team, and handles energy and environmental-related mandate, while fellow co-head Fredrik Lassenius acts for leading technology companies and private equity houses, and he frequently acts for foreign investors on cross-border deals. Jaako Huhtala has over 15 years experience in M&A, corporate and commercial transactions, with additional knowledge of alternative investment fund management operations. Niko Markkanen stands out for his focus on corporate governance issues, advising clients on a range of regulatory matters.
Practice head(s):
Christoffer Waselius; Fredrik Lassenius
Other key lawyers:
Jaakko Huhtala; Niko Markkanen
Testimonials
‘They apply an effective and forthcoming approach that makes deals flow.’
‘Christoffer Waselius is a renaissance man and stands out.’
‘Very technical and available. Client and solution driven.’
‘We have worked alongside Christoffer Waselius and his team. Finland as a jurisdiction was totally new to us and to our client. W&W was crucial to our understanding of Finnish law matters.’
Key clients
Visma
Equitix
Eitrium
Caplugs
adesso SE
Neova
Storytel
Loomis AB
Vulcain
(EWQ) Eurosec Oy
Alfa Oil
Essity Group
One.com Group AB
SANQUIN BLOOD SUPPLY FOUNDATION
Otso Corp
Euronext N.V.
Accent Equity 2008 L.P.
NCS Finland Oy
Hanken & SSE
Life Finland
Work highlights
- Advised Equitix on the acquisition of Aurora Infrastructure Oy, a leading platform operating strategic industrial electricity distribution networks in Finland.
- Assisted Visma with the divestment of Visma’s IT consulting business focused on digital transformation to CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII.
- Advised Neova Oy on entering into a joint venture with Lassila & Tikanoja Plc.
Eversheds Asianajotoimisto Oy / Eversheds Attorneys Ltd (a member of Eversheds Sutherland)
Eversheds Asianajotoimisto Oy / Eversheds Attorneys Ltd (a member of Eversheds Sutherland)'s transaction services team offers a comprehensive service, covering matters for clients ranging from major international corporations to medium and small private businesses and technology start ups. The team's experience includes handling demanding auction procedures and M&A transactions for SME clients. Mika Taberman is experienced in mergers, tender offers, share and asset acquisitions, corporate restructurings, and spin-offs. Henrik Sandholm was promoted to partner in June 2022.
Practice head(s):
Mika Taberman
Other key lawyers:
Henrik Sandholm
Testimonials
‘Hands on mentality and business practical approach to problems combined with willingness to solve customer problems and achieve goals.’
‘Vastly experienced, practical and commercially capable team lead with great attitude under stress – always aimed at best solution for the customer.’
‘Clear communication inside the deal team and on-time delivery without exceptions on large and small matters.’
Key clients
Brady Corporation
Auntie Solutions Oy
Koiviston Auto
Korona Fund III Ky
Stena Recycling Oy
Midsona AB
Elisa Corporation
Revenio Group Oyj
Specsavers Group
Relais Group Oyj
Digitalist Group Plc
YIT
Afarak Group Oyj
Glennmont Partners
Aquila Capital
Soprano Oyj
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholders of Metsäpietilä Oy on selling the shares of the company including its ten subsidiaries to CapMan Infra.
- Advised the Nasdaq Helsinki listed Soprano Plc and its shareholders as the company signed a conditional share exchange agreement according to which it will acquire all shares of Themis Holding Oy.
- Acted as adviser to YIT Corporation on a transaction where it sold its business in Russia to Etalon Group PLC.
KPMG in Finland
KPMG Law in Finland is active across a number of corporate areas and advises on due diligence issues, bidding contracts, SPA preparation and deal negotiations, group organisations, capital structurings, financing arrangements and compliance work. Kai Soini is a leading expert in corporate and M&A work, with 20 years of experience in structuring and implementing complex domestic and cross-border acquisitions. Juha Koivula is the head of the M&A transactions team and his focus areas span providing advice to software and IT companies and clients in the energy sector.
Practice head(s):
Juha Koivula; Kai Soini
Other key lawyers:
Ari Engblom; Annukka Mannerkoski
Testimonials
‘The team was very hands-on and solution-oriented.’
‘KPMG advised us on our first VC investment in Finland. They were able to manage a complex process with a large number of different investors, corporates and interests in a way that made us feel absolutely comfortable as a client at all times. Critical points were addressed appropriately and dealt with to our complete satisfaction. Even though we mostly work from abroad, the process went absolutely smoothly.’
‘The team showed a very profound knowledge of the VC industry and legal standards. The work and legal advice was always goal-oriented and always appropriate to the situation. In difficult and complex situations, the partner led with the necessary calm and objectivity. The legal advice was provided to our complete satisfaction.’
‘Good diversified team with all different skill-sets needed for a successful M&A deal.’
‘Good availability and flexibility in scheduling and timing, extensive experience and reference cases.’
‘The department has deep knowledge about commercial transactions and are well experienced with results.’
‘Kai Soini has special skills, very good person.’
Key clients
Cooperative Tradeka
Lumon Group
Fazer Group
Hartela Oy
Pohjola Rakennus Group
Novart Oy
A-Lehdet Oy
EKE-Finance Oy
Toyota Motor Sports GmbH
Wolt Enterprises Oy
Ferratum Oyj
Cargotec Plc
Work highlights
- Advised Cargotec Plc on the sale of its Navis business to Accel-KKR, a Silicon Valley-based leading technology-focused investment business.
- Advised the shareholders of Koivunen Oy on an international auction sale of the company with deal value of €122m.
- Advised the shareholders of Noiseless Acoustics Oy on the sale of the majority of the company to US-based Teledyne Technologies, Inc, a NYSE listed company.
Merilampi Attorneys Ltd
Merilampi Attorneys Ltd handles complex transactions for both domestic and international clients spanning publicly listed companies and private corporations. Antti Kahri has substantial experience in domestic and international mergers and acquisitions and private equity transactions, while Jani Ylä-Autio frequently advises clients on domestic and international corporate and real estate transactions. Olli Nikitin handles domestic and international matters spanning corporate law, public and private M&A and complex commercial agreements.
Practice head(s):
Antti Kahri; Jani Ylä-Autio
Other key lawyers:
Olli Nikitin
Testimonials
‘The team is reliable, competent, available and agile. The services include all business law disciplines relevant for our company, and we can rely on the necessary expertise flexibly on a case-by-case basis.’
‘Long term insight and commitment to client work. Deep knowledge of our company’s business and current matters. Strong customer orientation and service mindedness. Olli Nikitin’s roles as the secretary to the board of directors, and wide range of legal services he offers, makes him a trustworthy partner for continued co-operation.’
‘Olli Nikitin knows our company and industry extremely well which adds a lot of value.’
Key clients
Škoda Transportation Group
Pihlajalinna Plc
Suominen Corporation
Atlantic Bridge
Elisa Corporation
Posti Corporation
Neste Corporation
Kesko Corporation
Fortum Corporation
Sweco AB
Total Specific Solutions
Epredia Inc.
Koskisen Group
Asfalttikallio Oy
Work highlights
- Advised Pihlajalinna on its acquisition of Pohjola Hospital from Pohjola Insurance.
- Advised a total of nine Nasdaq Helsinki listed companies on annual general meetings held during 2022.
- Assisted US-based private equity company Great Hill Partners on a transaction where Finnish Leadfeeder and German Echobot merged.
Merkurius Attorneys
Merkurius Attorneys is based in Tampere and has an established M&A practice, which is focused on commercial M&A transactions, acting for clients on the selling or purchasing companies or businesses. Jussi Lampinen advises clients on M&A deals, assisting buyers and sellers on a regular basis. Heli Piksilä-Rantanen is focused on contractual arrangements.
Practice head(s):
Jussi Lampinen
Other key lawyers:
Heli Piksilä-Rantanen
Testimonials
‘Straight forward focus on issues at hand.’
‘Easy to work with, no hidden agenda provides results as agreed.’
‘Great team of people who always ensure the highest quality of legal work. The team was always on top of the situation and provided us real insight on the deal which we would have not figured out on our own. Along with looking after our legal interests, the team always wanted to make the deal work.’
Key clients
Pikespo Invest Oy
Grundium Oy
Partnos Oy
A-Insinöörit Oy
Panostaja Oyj
Finlandia Kiinteistöt Oy
Kiilto Oy
Lojer Oy
Fimlab Laboratoriot Oy
Tampereen Sähkölaitos Oy
Finceptum Holding Oy
Patria Oyj
Unilabs Kokkolan Röntgen Oy
Volati AB
Pemamek Oy
Bronto Skylift Oy Ab
CoreHW Oy
Noho Partners Oyj
Jujo Thermal Oy
Katepal Oy
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholders of Grundium Oy on selling the majority of Grundium Oy’s shares to EW Healthcare Partners.
- Advised Lojer Oy on acquiring 100% of the shares in Merivaara Oy.
- Assisting Volati AB with the acquisition of shares of Terästorni Oy.
NORDIA Law
NORDIA Law is a boutique firm which advises companies and venture capital investors on private equity mergers, investment and acquisition mandates, due diligence issues, regulatory work and contract negotiations. The firm also has the capability to handle cross-border mandates, leveraging the expertise in its offices in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Copenhagen and Oslo. Matti Kari is the managing partner, with over 20 years of experience in handling commercial contracts and providing regulatory advice. Timo Skurnik is an experienced corporate lawyer with a focus on the IT and gaming sectors, assisting vendors as well as customers acquiring technology products and services.
Practice head(s):
Matti Kari; Timo Skurnik
Testimonials
‘The team has strong experience in our business area (gaming) and very skilled partners with decades of experience from small companies to public companies.’
‘We’ve been working with partner Matti Kari for years and built a strong relationship with him and his team. Matti is exceptional in the way he combines business acumen and understanding with super strong across the board experience and skills in the legal domain. This combination allows him to deliver very strong value to clients like us as he can base decisions and matters of judgement not only on the legal basis but weigh those against business goals and needs.’
‘Very experienced team with decades of experience working with start-ups, tech companies and gaming companies. Extremely good understanding of business terms and business issues, and very good legal counsel advice.’
‘Matti Kari, partner, is an amazingly valuable legal partner for any company to work with, is very accessible and available and offers a very high-quality service and understanding and has great industry knowledge and understanding in TMT and gaming companies.’
Key clients
Plus Terveys Ltd
Remedy Entertainment
Redhill Games Oy
Qentinel Ltd
IPR.VC
Boom Corp Oy
Immersal Ltd
Fimet Invest Ltd
Mcare Group Ltd
Fixably Ltd
Palvelurahasto I Ky
Aava Mobile Oy
Work highlights
- Acted as the legal adviser on the listing of Remedy Entertainment Plc. to the main list of Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.
- Advised the owners of Aava Mobile Oy on the sale of the company to Pepperl+Fuchs.
- Advised the owners of A2C Investment Oy (Vantaan Kiinnike ja Rak Oy) on the sale of the company’s construction materials retail business to an SPV established by Sponsor Capital and the related re-investment by the sellers.
Procopé & Hornborg
Procopé & Hornborg’s corporate, commercial and M&A practice fields experienced professionals who assist clients in domestic, international and cross-border M&A transactions. Petri Kyllönen is the head of the team and is specialised in M&A and private equity deals, while Ismo Hentula has broad experience in assisting domestic and international clients with regulatory matters across various industries including the energy sector. Pia Tanskanen has broad experience in evaluating, negotiating and executing both domestic and international transactions.
Practice head(s):
Petri Kyllönen; Pia Tanskanen; Ismo Hentula
Testimonials
‘Focus on the best outcome for the client. They feel that the client really comes first.’
‘Client commitment and availability. Petri Kyllönen and Pia Tanskanen have extensive experience in M&A in Europe. There are no negative surprises along the way with them. All angles have been identified and analysed beforehand.’
‘Professional team who provide commercial, prompt and pragmatic advice.’
‘Ismo Hentula is an very experienced and trusted adviser. He is able to provide not just sound legal advice, but also valuable commercial input.’
‘Professional team with very good knowledge in different fields. Interested in the client and client issues.’
‘Positive attitude, real interested in our matters.’
‘Collaboration. Partner involvement.’
‘Petri Kyllönen. Excellent skills and knowledge combined with a pragmatic approach.’
Key clients
Ensto Group
EPV Energy Ltd
Etteplan Oyj
Etteplan Finland Oy
Firstbeat Technologies Ltd
Gold Fields Limited
Haltija Group Oy
Indutrade Oy
Pohjolan Voima Oyj
Viafin Service Oyj
Nepton Group Oy
Likeit Solutions Oy
Vahanen yhtiöt
Sponsor Fund IV
Sievi Capital Oyj
Axel Johnsson International/AxFlow Group
Sponsor Capital Oy
KLINGER Holding GmbH /KLINGER Group
Work highlights
- Advised Vahanen Group’s management and its shareholders on the sale of the entire share capital of Vahanen International Oy to AFRY.
- Advised Ensto Invest Oy on the sale of Ensto Building Systems Oy together with all the EBS group companies to Legrand France S.A.
- Advised funds managed by Sponsor Capital Oy on the sale of CompAid Group Oy, including its subsidiary Haltija Group Oy, to Berner Oy.